GAME DAY: Collingwood V West Coast

The reigning Premiers are back at the MCG to face last year’s runners up in a highly anticipated Grand Final rematch between Collingwood and West Coast on Saturday night.

Brad Hardie and Kim Hagdorn spoke to Collingwood’s General Manager of Football on 6PR’s Front and Centre and he says the key to a win tonight is in the midfield.

“The game today certainly lends itself to midfielders because there’s so much running, so much up and down,” Geoff Walsh told 6PR.

Click PLAY to hear the full interview.

Andrew Gaff makes his long awaited return after a suspension that kept him out of last year’s Grand Final, and West Coast Assistant Coach Jaymie Graham says he will slot back in nicely.
“We expect Gaff to come back in and produce what he normally does,” Graham told 6PR.

Jordan De Goey has two in the opening quarter, and Mason Cox has kicked a goal from outside 50, to give the Pies the lead, 3.1.19 to 1.2.8 at quarter time. Jamie Cripps has the sole Eagles goal.

Jamie Cripps has made the most of a below-the-knees free kick and a 50m penalty, to kick his third goal. Eagles lead at half time 7.6.48 to 6.3.39

Andrew Gaff leads all comers with 18 possessions.

HALF TIME

A last quarter goal to Dom Sheed, in a very similar position to his 2018 Grand Final match winner, was a dagger to Collingwood fans.

The Eagles finished strong to win, 15.8.98 to 11.10.76. Andrew Gaff was impressive on his return with 35 disposals, while Jamie Cripps lead all scorers with 4 goals

The Eagles are now 2-1 and will have the home crowd on their side next week against Fremantle, while Collingwood are now 1-2 and will face an unbeaten Western Bulldogs